Jahlil Hurley, a highly regarded player in his own right, is the only scholarship cornerback from the 2023 roster who is returning, thus he may have a minor advantage. Even though the new coaching staff has virtually started from scratch, Hurley at least is familiar with the school, its amenities, and his teammates. He and Jackson will try to hold off a quality group of newcomers that includes Zay Mincey, Zabien Brown, and 5-star Jaylen Mbakwe.
Both of these position rooms are extremely talented, despite their lack of prior expertise and history in production. Coach DeBoer has also demonstrated that he won’t think twice about using the gateway in an emergency. It makes perfect sense if one or both of these roles
However, Wilks faced criticism the whole 2023 season after taking over as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator in lieu of DeMeco Ryans, the head coach of the Houston Texans.
With 17.5 points allowed per game, San Francisco’s defense came in third in the NFL under Wilks’ leadership. Additionally, the 49ers placed 10th overall defense, having led the league in that category under Ryans the season before.
During the 49ers’ overtime loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII on Sunday night, Shanahan was clearly displeased with several of Wilks’ defensive play selections. This is what caused him to do such a risky action. We examine four potential successors to Wilks as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator below.
Related: The San Francisco 49ers’ four perfect trade possibilities involving Brandon Aiyuk
Promotion to defensive coordinator for Kris Kocurek
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